Have you ever wondered how to write and send a letter to a member of the British Royal Family? According to the Royal Family's website, the King is shown almost all of his correspondence nearly every day. Furthermore, it's not uncommon the receive a cordial reply from the Royal Family to letters sent to them.
Many people write to various members of the Royal Family for any number of reasons, including sending them greetings, birthday and holiday wishes, and even get well notes and messages of sympathy.
According to the Royal Family's website, letters need not be written in a formal manner. Should one choose to use a more formal approach in one's letter, when writing to The King it is typical to open with 'Sir' and close the letter with 'I have the honour to be, Sir, Your Majesty's humble and obedient servant.' (When writing to other members of the Royal Family such as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, who are not currently reining monarchs, closing with 'obedient servant' is not necessary, 'Yours sincerely' will do.)
For The Queen, open the letter with 'Madam' and close the letter as above. One may also use 'Your Royal Highness' which apples both to men and women.
In the body of the letter, it is better to use 'Your Majesty' rather than using the pronoun 'you' to refer to members of the Royal Family. Similarly, use phrases such as 'your majesty's work' rather than 'your work.'
It is best to keep letters brief, stick to one page if possible. Also, it is not advised to send gifts as they are often returned.
If you want to be particularly formal, tradition dictates the letter and envelope be addressed to 'The Private Secretary to NAME OF ROYALTY' rather than the royal family member themself. This is also not necessary any longer.
Addresses of the Royal Family:
His Majesty The King / Her Majesty The Queen
Buckingham Palace
London
SW1A 1AA
Their Royal Highnesses The Prince and Princess of Wales
Kensington Palace
London
W8 4PU
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